The Dissenter
#1045 Will Gervais - Disbelief: The Origins of Atheism in a Religious Species
Jan 13, 2025
Will Gervais, a cultural and evolutionary psychologist from Brunel University London, dives deep into the origins of atheism and its evolutionary significance. He challenges popular misconceptions about religion, examining beliefs and morality through a psychological lens. Gervais also explores the unique role of humans as a religious species, the societal complexities behind belief retention, and the ethical behavior of atheists versus the religious. He highlights the nuanced factors influencing both terror and cooperation in religious contexts, painting a dynamic picture of belief in modern society.
01:50:38
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Quick takeaways
- Both religion and atheism represent evolutionary puzzles that reveal complex aspects of human nature and belief systems.
- Cognitive abilities related to social understanding play a vital role in shaping the human inclinations towards religious beliefs.
Deep dives
Religion and Atheism as Evolutionary Puzzles
Both religion and atheism are referred to as evolutionary puzzles that require exploration to understand human nature. Humans are unique in their religious inclinations, with every known culture exhibiting some form of supernatural beliefs, whereas atheism is on the rise, prompting questions about its existence alongside a species that seems naturally inclined to religion. While religious beliefs are nearly universal among humans, a significant proportion of people identify as atheists, raising inquiries about why these seemingly contradictory paths exist. As more individuals abandon religious beliefs, understanding the cognitive and social foundations of both religion and atheism is crucial for unraveling these complexities.
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